A new pedestrian bridge is being installed to replace one swept away by fierce stormwaters last year, and the government is confident this one won't budge.
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The footbridge that crossed the a stormwater drain near the Yarra Glen and Melrose Drive in Curtin was torn free during a storm on December 12 last year.
It went on a wild 1km ride, tearing up the concrete and stone of the stormwater channel before coming to rest in a twisted metal heap downstream.
Almost a year on to the day, Territory and Municipal Services crews are installing a replacement bridge, which has been specially reinforced to protect it from a future surge.
There is good reason for the reinforcement. Last December's storm, which dumped an average month's rainfall in just 24 hours, was a reminder of the 1971 flood that swept through the area, claiming seven lives.
The new bridge has been built with increased bracing added to the breams to support the bridge deck. The railing height has also been increased to meet current safety standards.
TAMS wouldn't disclose how much the new bridge or repairs to the damaged drain costs, only saying "all replacement costs have been covered by the Territory's insurance policy".
The bridge was of a similar cost to "other storm water crossing bridges of a similar size".
It will open before Christmas.
